Trans-Tasman loopholes

Following the arrest, Ms Bligh has spoken to Prime Minister Julia Gillard and her New Zealand counterpart in an attempt to tighten trans-Tasman criminal checks.

She says Queensland Health only checks the Australian system.

"Both John Key and Julia Gillard this morning have indicated they will be getting further advice about what needs to be done to ensure that if there are any loopholes between New Zealand and Australia they want to see that closed," she said.

"They, like me, share the same concerns that there may be an exposure across the Tasman, not only for us here in Australia, but there are similar arrangements that prevail in New Zealand.

"It's equally possible that people with an unsuitable criminal background are working in New Zealand as a result of the similar visa arrangements."